A CHIPPING Norton nurse described her experience of taking part in her UK Ironman challenge as "amazing."

Debbie Davidson completed the gruelling challenge in Bolton, Lancashire, in 13 hours and 52 minutes which included a one hour and 22 minute swim over 2.4 miles of open water; a 112 mile bike ride taking seven hours and 31 minutes, before finishing off with a four-and-half-hour, 26.2-mile marathon. Half an hour was spent getting changed in the two transitions.

"I had a fantastic time and really enjoyed the whole experience," she said. "The support from locals and friends and relatives on the course was amazing, with complete strangers willing you on to the finish line, cheering you every step of the way. The weather was not brilliant with a very wet start to the day and strong winds on the bike ride. However, the sun eventually came out for the marathon to everyone's delight."

Mrs Davidson had to juggle training around work and home life though still managed to fit in an average of three to four hours' training six days a week. Her hard work paid off, however, as she managed to raise £2,750 for Kate's Home Nursing.

The local charity provides free Hospice at Home nursing care for patients in the last stages of terminal illness.

Although the charity receives some official funding, the majority of its income comes from charitable donations and fundraising events. Being involved first hand with the patients and their families at such difficult and sad times, gives Mrs Davidson an insight into just how important it is to support people who wish to die at home. Not only can they die peacefully at home surrounded by the people they love but knowing this last wish has been achieved can help enormously with the family's grief.